Application Techniques for Exterior Façades | Bostik Blog

The traditional façade attachment practice is the mechanical method. Typically, this means using screws or rivets into the building to hold the panels in place. This usually requires drilling the holes into the panels on-site, causing excessive dust and noise and risking weakening or breaking the panels.

The screws and rivets are also visible on the panels once installed. Sometimes they can be painted to look the same as the panels, but they are still noticeably there when taking a closer look. Some architects even go for a more stylized or industrial look by making the visible attachments part of the design aesthetic with plugs. However, if you want a clean style, visible hardware may not be part of the look you are going for.

Clips, hooks and brackets are becoming a more popular mechanical option. They can be more discreet and hidden behind the panels with no obvious attachment on the front. These can be used to achieve a modern, seamless aesthetic. 

The biggest downside to all mechanical methods is the amount of time it takes to install and the cost. Plus, mechanical installation methods require more materials, special tools and extra labor, along with the extra time, to get the job done.

Another drawback is in the panel performance. When all the weight and loads are distributed between just a few points, it causes a lot of added stress to the screws or clips holding the façade in place. It also makes the panels less wind- and tremor-resistant. 

And should a panel break, there is a greater chance pieces could fall from the side of the building since they are only attached at a few points.

Chemical methods, like Bostik’s PanelTack™ System, are adhesives that discreetly bond the façade panels to the substructure.  

Chemical adhesives are a more durable and aesthetically-pleasing option, along with being the easiest installation method. A façade can be fully applied up to 40% faster than mechanical alternatives with 50% of the labor needed on site. And overall adhesive façade bonding is the most cost-effective option on the market. 

Adhesives like the PanelTack System adhere to almost all types of panel materials from gauged tile porcelain, fiber cement boards (FCB) and high-pressure laminate (HPL) to pressed mineral wool (PMW), aluminum composite and even concrete. Since adhesive attaches the back of the façade panels to the substructure, the attachment method is virtually invisible, making it the best option for achieving a seamless design aesthetic.  

Chemical methods require no drilling, so the risk of breaking or damaging panels during installation is significantly reduced. There is also no need for any power tools or electricity on-site and no dust or noise generated from chemical adhesives. 

Because the adhesive runs the full length of the panels, stress is more evenly distributed, and the chemical bond stands up better against wind and vibrations than mechanical alternatives. This means builders can use thinner panels and lighter support structures, and there is a reduced risk of panels cracking or breaking off the wall. 

Chemical adhesives are quickly becoming the preferred choice when installing ventilated facades due to their durability, ease of use, aesthetic appeal and cost-saving benefits. 

View the video to see why Peter Wazna, VP of Evolv Surfaces, chose the PanelTack System for his commercial projects. 

Want the flexibility and durability of adhesives with the added security of mechanical fixtures? Opt for a combination of both methods.

One example is combining the PanelTack System with metal clips. The adhesive provides resistance to buildings in high wind load areas while the clips add an extra level of protection should a panel break. This is one of the most secure installation methods available.

If you want a clean, seamless aesthetic, pair the adhesive with hidden hooks rather than clips. Should a panel crack, replacing it will be easy.

If your building is in an area with extreme wind conditions or seismic activity, combining the benefits of both chemical and mechanical installation guarantees a superior level of safety.